Introduction
The simple answer to this question is yes! But don’t panic I’ll explain what this means, how to prevent it and how to clean a tarnished piece of beloved silver jewellery.
What is tarnish?
Tarnish is a thin layer of discoloration or dullness that forms on the surface of metals over time. It can result in sterling silver looking almost black in colour. Not to worry though, this discolouration is not permanent and can be removed!
For sterling silver, tarnish happens because of a chemical reaction between the metal and sulphur-containing substances in the air (like hydrogen sulphide) or moisture. Sterling silver isn’t pure silver; it’s an alloy that’s 92.5% silver and 7.5% other metals, often copper. These other metals make it more durable, but they also make it more reactive.
If you’re a treasure hunter like me and like to find sterling silver out in the wild, it’s a good idea to familiarise yourself with tarnish and what it looks like. This will make it easier for you to spot those silver pieces that have been overlooked or under valued.
Why does it occur?
1. Reaction with Sulphur Compounds:
Sulphur is found in air pollution, rubber, wool, and even some foods like eggs and onions. When sterling silver comes into contact with these, it reacts and forms a dark layer called silver sulphide.
2. Moisture and Humidity:
High humidity accelerates tarnishing because water vapor helps the sulfur compounds stick to the silver.
3. Exposure to Chemicals:
Contact with things like perfumes, lotions, cleaning products, or even skin oils can speed up tarnish formation.
4. Storage Conditions:
If silver is stored in open air or near tarnish-causing materials (like cardboard or felt), it will tarnish more quickly.
In short, tarnish is a natural process that happens when sterling silver reacts with its environment. While it’s not harmful, it can make silver look dull or dark, which is why regular cleaning and proper storage are essential!
How to remove tarnish
Removing tarnish from sterling silver jewellery is simple and can often be done using common household items or specialized cleaners. Here are some effective, tried and tested methods:
1. Soap and Water
When to Use: For light tarnish.
What to Do: Mix warm water with a few drops of mild dish soap.
Gently scrub the jewellery using a soft cloth or a soft-bristled toothbrush.
Rinse with clean water and pat dry with a soft, lint-free cloth.
2. Baking Soda and Aluminium Foil
When to Use: For moderate tarnish.
What to Do: Line a small bowl with aluminium foil (shiny side up).
Add 1 tablespoon of baking soda and 1 tablespoon of salt.
Pour in hot water to dissolve the ingredients.
Submerge the silver jewellery, ensuring it touches the aluminium foil (this triggers a chemical reaction).
Wait 2–5 minutes, then rinse and dry thoroughly.
3. Silver Polish
When to Use: For heavy tarnish.
What to Do: Use a commercial silver polish (available in most stores).
Apply a small amount to a soft cloth and gently rub the tarnished areas.
Rinse with water and dry with a clean, soft cloth.
Avoid using polish on pieces with intentional oxidation or intricate designs, as it may strip details.
4. Toothpaste
When to Use: For light tarnish (not recommended for delicate or heavily designed pieces).
What to Do: Use a non-gel, non-whitening toothpaste.
Apply a small amount to the jewellery with your finger, a soft cloth or soft bristle tooth brush (to help you clean hard to reach places)
Rub gently, then rinse thoroughly and dry.
5. Vinegar and Baking Soda
When to Use: For stubborn tarnish.
What to Do: Mix 1/2 cup of white vinegar with 2 tablespoons of baking soda in a bowl.
Submerge the jewellery and let it soak for 2–3 hours.
Rinse and dry thoroughly.
This also works with apple cider vinegar, my personal favourite. Check out this YouTube video I created to show you how it works https://youtu.be/6tz3TdcTofw
6. Commercial Tarnish Removers
When to Use: For convenience or delicate pieces.
What to Do: Follow the product’s instructions to safely clean your jewellery.
If you’re sterling silver jewellery contains gemstones e.g. amethyst or quartz please take extra care when cleaning. The last thing you want to do is cause any damage to your semi-precious gemstones. The following stones should not be placed in water: Fluorite, Calcite, Malachite, Selenite, Lapis Lazuli, Turquoise, Opal, Jasper, Moonstone…
Top tips for preventing tarnish after cleaning
- Store jewellery in an airtight bag or anti-tarnish pouch.
- Use silica gel packets to reduce moisture (be careful not to leave silica gel patches laying around if you have small children/pets).
- Wear your silver regularly and clean after each use.
- Avoid letting your silver jewellery come into contact with perfume, moisturiser or skin care products.
Summary
With a little tender loving care you’re sterling silver jewellery can always be brought back to its original shine and beauty. It’s important to remember that whilst some people prefer bright shiny silver, others are attracted to the patina which is achieved over time. Some jewellers even add patina/tarnish to there pieces to make them appear aged and to emphasis intricate designs.
I often leave some vintage pieces, especially antique jewellery, unpolished or lightly polished. Retaining some of the patina can be attractive and enhance the character of a vintage piece, adding depth, contrast and a sense of history.
All sterling silver pieces purchased from Nine Lives and Beyond arrive with a free polishing cloth – giving the buyer the option to polish their piece should they wish to.
